An Open Letter to my Best Friend

(Adapted from a private letter written in 2021. Warning: there are explicit words in this post.)

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(Pictured above: Julie and Holly with sunglasses on, They are on the fishing pier in Dubrovnik with boats behind them, surrounded by castle walls, and a random couple walking by.)

My Dearest Holly,

We have been through some serious shit over the last 14-ish years, huh? We have seen epic highs and some fucked up lows. We have flown all over the world, traveled to distant lands, road tripped, and sat in restaurants until they asked us to leave. I will never be able to fully explain all the life lessons I have learned from you, but here are some of them that I now live with full conviction. I will be forever grateful for our time together on this planet:

• I have learned that no matter how busy people are, a true friend will be there no matter what. They will make the time.

• We can trust each other with all of us, not just this facade we have to give the rest of the world. It is a gift of trust no one else has.

• You and I are stronger for the real world since we have each other in our version of it.

• We can achieve anything we want to because we have someone who wants us to be the best we can be without forcing any change on the other one.

• We may be able to bullshit the world, but we cannot bullshit each other. I love that!

• It’s okay to not be okay, and share that with someone who will let you sit and be, not try to fix anything.

• The cone of silence is real.

• The bubble is a good thing, when needed.

• Also, having a travel husband is an outstanding thing.

• Nothing is better than laughing until we cry at our own silliness.

• Everything is our own silliness.

• Boys are good to talk about. We will always talk about them.

• We can be judgey-mcjudgerton to anyone we want, but damn the bitches that try to come for either one of us.

• Overpriced, Crappy pizza with you is still the best.

• Disagreements are just ways we learn to communicate better.

• Nothing will break our bond.

• We are stronger than either one of us realize.

• We are sexy bitches. And we know it.

• Cruises are better together.

• Cuban men are HOT!!! (But do not fit in our luggage.)

• 'Meetings' are supposed to last for no less than 3 meals at any restaurant. The. End.

• We are too much for most people. We are okay with that.

• Some people live their whole lives and never have a fraction of what we have together. We do not take that for granted.

• Bitches be Bitches. We be those Bitches.

You, my darling, are without a doubt, the best friend I have ever had. My heart overflows with love for you unequivocally until the end of time. There are not enough words in the English language for me to accurately describe how your friendship has changed who I am as a person over the years. All of those changes are good. I am better because of our friendship. We love each other for who we are, where we are. Although we don’t try to change the other, we are the best cheerleader for the one who wants to change or better themselves. We are also there no matter what in times of need or stress without judgment. Well, unless it’s funny. I wanted you to know that doesn’t change, ever. Yes, we have said that. But I’m saying it again. And again. And again. I am grateful to have you. You are the most amazing friend. I love you. From the first day, till now, till forever.

You are the most amazing sister that I was privileged to choose.

I love you forever.

Your Bestie, Your Juju

(Pictured above: Holly and Julie smiling wearing sunglasses with the island of Santorini, Greece in the background.)